Students and our Level 3 teacher, David, left NYEA shortly after 10 am and headed to Fulton Station to catch the 4/5 train and then the 7 train via Flushing, Queens. Once we arrived, we met up with some other students and then proceeded to some of the matches at the practice courts. We watched a female match between a player from China, who eventually won against a player from Romania. Afterwards, we headed back to the main area and were given tips by a juggler who was entertainment people walking by. Some other students decided to check out some of the other matches going on, while the rest of us went to the food court, called Food Village, then went inside some of the local stores such as the US Open’s official sponsor, Polo Ralph Lauren. In addition, we had the pleasure of posing in some of Mercedes Benz’s new vehicles. Afterwards, we took a few more photos of women on stilts and a man on a unicycle before making our way back to the 7 train at Mets-Willets Point.

Students and our Level 3 teacher, David, left NYEA after the pizza party and made its way to South Ferry. After reaching the ferry terminal, we purchased tickets to Governor’s Island, a short distance away. Once there, we took a stroll around the island, checking out what it had to offer, including its Native American origins, its use as an Army base with different forts, as well as Castle Williams that once served as a prison. Afterwards, we had some nice conversations on a bench, enjoyed the historic buildings that were dotted around the island, reminiscent of colonial Virginia, appreciated the hilly landscapes, plus the flora and fauna, then headed back towards the pier area, where we had some drinks in a food court area before catching the next ferry back to Manhattan.

Students and out Level 3 teacher David left the school shortly after noon and headed to Fulton St. to catch the A train, then transfer in Brooklyn to the F via Coney Island. On the way, I explained to the students some of the history of Coney Island, including Luna Park being popular around the world. In addition, mention was made of the effects of Hurricane Sandy and the rebuilding of the amusement park. After arriving, we all went directly to the aquarium and were amazed by everything it had to offer, including the brand new shark exhibit, which features a tunnel full of sharks and other marine life, mostly different species of fish. In addition, we checked out the sea lions and even attended the sea lion show which also included a walrus performing entertaining acts. Afterwards, we walked to the rooftop to glimpse at the entire boardwalk and the beach, then split up. Some of the students stayed behind to eat, as well as enjoy some of the rides at Luna Park.

Students and our Level 3 teacher David left NYEA around noon and made its way to the C line at Fulton St. Once arriving at Spring St. Station, we walked one and a half blocks westward toward the Fire Museum. After taking some photos outside, we went in and enjoyed the many pieces of history the museum had to offer. There were old fire relics, photos of famous firemen throughout the ages, as well as old vehicles/carriages that were used over a hundred years ago. Included in the exhibition was a fire dog that was preserved, famous for saving children and pets as well. In addition, there were many collected fire patches exhibited on the wall, not to mention trying on real fire gear including helmets and coats. We explored two different levels of the museum and in the end, checked out the souvenir shopped before heading out.

Students and our Level 3 teacher, David, left shortly after 10 am and headed from the academy towards nearby Pier 11 to catch the ferry via Far Rockaway. After purchasing tickets and waiting in line for some time, we boarded and made our way to the beach, which is situated in Queens. Upon arriving, we strolled on the boardwalk and stopped by an eating area with different food options and benches to sit on. After eating lunch, we prepared ourselves for the beach and enjoyed our time soaking up the sun, throwing the Frisbee around, wading and/or swimming in the water, and of course, practicing English. After a while, we decided to call it a day headed our own ways.